Internet Access Policy

Please read the following before using the Internet:

The Hershey Public Library is a community center focusing on open access to materials, programs, information and services that fulfill the community’s educational and enrichment needs. The Library actively promotes and supports reading, literacy, information technology, and lifelong learning.

The Internet is a resource that enables library patrons to connect to information beyond that contained in the Library’s collection. Currently, however, it is an unregulated medium. While it does contain a wealth of materials that are personally, professionally and culturally enriching to individuals of all ages, it also allows access to some materials that may be offensive, illegal and/or inaccurate. The Hershey Public Library does not monitor and has no control over any materials obtained on the Internet, and cannot be held responsible for its content.

All Internet resources accessible through the Library are provided equally to all library users. Parents or guardians, not the Library or its staff, are responsible for their children’s use of the Internet through the Library’s connection. In compliance with Federal Law, the library provides filtered access to the Internet based on the user’s age. Internet computers located in the Children’s Department are reserved for patrons under age 17. Despite the presence of filtering software, it is recommended that parents supervise their children’s Internet sessions.

Internet technology changes rapidly and employs a wide variety of hardware and software; therefore, library computers may not support every activity available via the Internet, nor may library staff be able to provide assistance in every circumstance.

Using the public computers – Computer Help” folder at the PC reservation table may answer many of your questions. Please note: it is not permitted to download software to any public computer.

Rules of Use

Be considerate in your use of Internet resources. You are in a public place shared by people of all ages, with a variety of interests, needs, and tastes.

Use of another patron’s library card is prohibited. A user must use his/her own library card only .

It is the responsibility of parents to determine what materials are appropriate for their own children.

Copyright and licensing rules must be observed.

Internet equipment and software must be used as installed and may only be altered by library staff.

Users may not attempt unauthorized entry into other computers or networks, or disrupt or interfere with other computer or network users, services or equipment.

The library expressly prohibits any use of library computers for illegal activities, or to access material that contains or makes reference to explicit sexual materials as defined in 18 Pa. C.S. § 5903, is obscene, contains child pornography, or is harmful to minors.

Computer time is limited to provide access to as many users as possible. A user must promptly relinquish a computer at the end of a session when the computer is assigned to a patron on the waiting list.

No more than two people may use an Internet workstation at one time.

No Food or drink is allowed at the computer stations.

Reported complaints from other library patrons or staff, in violation of these rules, will be considered grounds for loss of Internet privileges, based on the 4-step procedure outlined below.

Misuse of the library’s computers or Internet access will result in loss of Internet privileges.

Misuse of, or noncompliance with the library’s Wireless Access Policy will result in loss of Internet privileges.

1) Warning: The patron will be asked to discontinue use of computer/access for the day.